Blackburn Rovers confirm McBride transfer.

(Friday, July 16, 2003) -- United States and Columbus Crew striker Brian McBride will soon be joining Blackburn Rovers
in England's Premier League.

Rovers manager Graeme Souness confirmed the deal today, an official announcemnt delayed presumably so as not to distract
attention from today's Major League Soccer draft.

"A deal has been agreed to bring (McBride) in," Souness told reporters "We are hopeful of getting all the paperwork
finalized, including work permit, to enable him to come over and join the squad within the next week."

At Blackburn, McBride will join his U.S. men's and one-time Columbus teammate, goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

McBride, who was to be paid $341,250 by MLS in 2004, according to recently released figures, will earn approximately
$1.5 million aanually with Rovers, MLS sources told Sports Ticker. The term of the contract was reported to cover the remainder of this
season and two more. Rovers will pay a transfer fee to MLS is the range of $2 million.

Rovers initially hoped for a loan deal that would have brought McBride to the team until the end of the Premiership
season in May. MLS wanted him back by the end of March for the beginning of the league season. The deal seemed dead until
Blackburn's board of directors authorized Souness to spend money on midseason transfers.

After an inspiring 2002-03 season, Rovers (6-11-4, 22 points) have fallen on hard times, currently in three-way tie for 15th place
and only three points clear of the relegation zone.